Free Lunch by Rex Ogle

Powerful. Moving. Tragic. Hopeful.

Imagine navigating middle school when you already stand out because you are the poor kid in a school of wealthy kids.

Imagine showing up to school with a black eye and no money for lunch. Instead, you have to tell the cashier that you are in the free lunch program, and because of that, you are made fun of endlessly. 

Imagine going from a run-down apartment to living in your car to ending in housing projects. Instead, you stay behind and walk home to avoid other kids knowing where you live. 

That was Rex Ogle's experience growing up in Texas, living in poverty, struggling to make friends, navigating his mom and stepdad's violent mood swings, overcoming teachers who just look at him and decide he’s trouble, to not being able to participate in sports, or having to wear handmade Halloween costumes. 

Through all his experiences Rex finds moments of hope, friendship, laughter, and authenticity. Listening to the audiobook I fell in love with Rex, with his compassion, his honesty, and his passion.

Ms. Galan